[High ileus with a prolonged course]

The authors describe the atypical development of a so-called high ileus caused by a bulky phytobezoar made up of tropical fruit. it is of interest that the organism managed to cope for two months relatively well with a condition described in surgical practice as acute abdomen where urgent or at least acute intervention is essential. The authors draw attention to pitfalls of out-patient care which may involve risk of delay due to incomplete evaluation by the specialists involved. This risk is particularly great during the present period of restructuring of the health services "hunting for a"high point score".